Discerning what is important in your life...

I have often observed people make claims about certain things that are important to them in the course of life.
I also have a list of things that I deem significant to my own existence. 
You have certain things that you consider important in your own life.

I will offer two suggestions for telling if the claims are true.

1.   What you TALK ABOUT is what is important to you!
People (you and me as well) talk frequently about what is important to us!
               I would say this is a universal truth and a superb litmus test for determination of what REALLY matters to a given person.  Consider this: if you encounter a dog lover, you cannot get them to shut up about the stupid mutt. (Please don't be offended, I love dogs, and have two pound puppies!)  If you come across a grandma, you will be subject to a litany of photos and stories of the 'little darlings'.  Be careful, what you talk about betrays what is truly paramount in your life and you cannot avoid this indictment.  Of course, I am not talking about lip service, because it is easy enough to promote that you care for a certain topic.  I am referring to the time when your guard is down, when you are not trying so hard to impress someone.  Your casual speak reveals your heart, not your practiced speeches.

2.  What you MAKE SURE HAPPENS, is important to you!
         Exercise addicts do not fail to hit the gym.  Avid photographers never miss an opportunity to capture an event on film.  Yet, one frequently encounters people who claim a certain thing is central to his or her existence, however they fail to ensure its happening.  "I love God"  but I do not pray regularly, or read my bible.  It becomes obvious at that point that God is not that important to you because you probably never miss an episode of American Idol- and if you do, you surely tivo it to watch later!  What you make sure happens is  important to you, plain and simple.

There it is, two easy ways to evaluate what is really important to you and others. 

And remember, you can use this yardstick to condemn others and deceive yourself!

-J.